Modern throwback.

This is the XSR900. And yes, you’re right - it’s the charismatic three-cylinder MT-09 wearing it’s dad’s flares and floppy-collared shirt. Chassis and engine are MT-09, with the 2016 updates of a slipper-assist light-action clutch and three-level traction control. For the XSR the MT’s contemporary styling is swapped for round lights, aluminium bodywork and round instruments. ‘To reflect Yamaha’s sporty DNA, its history and its iconic motorcycles of the past,’ they say. Hmm. Don’t know about all that, but the 900 pulls it off. You could predict the XSR. After retrofying the MT-07 into the XSR700 (see last issue) this larger ‘Faster Sons’ variant was a given, especially after Yamaha’s video of the ‘Faster Wasp’ MT-09 flattracker by US custom bloke Roland Sands. Let’s hope the trim on the front of his tank makes the accessory list, to give the same flat-tank profile. In other MT-related news, there’s now an MT-03. Basically a naked YZF-R3 sportsbike for A2 licence holders, with funky digi dash, LED lights and crisp lines, it’s not quite a modern LC... but looks good.

ZZR 1400.

Kawasaki have introduced two revised 2016 ZZR-1400 models featuring upgrades to ensure the machines keep their power and character, whilst complying with Euro 4 regulations. Utilising new settings in the ECU and a revised evaporative and exhaust system, the ZZR meets the latest Euro 4 emission regulations without any drop in the power figures of this 1,441-cc machine.

690 Duke.

After more than 20 years, KTM have launched the new generation of the 690 Duke. Not only does the 690 Duke house the largest and most powerful singlecylinder engine (73 PS) as of today but also one that complies with strict Euro 4 emission norms. The Austrian firm has added multiple balancers to ensure smoothness in this large-capacity single and has ensured a wider powerband for riding convenience. The 690 Duke also gets a large TFT colour display, on-board computer and ABS as standard kit. There’s no chance of this one coming to India any time soon, but we’re keeping our fingers crossed and praying for a miracle.